Golf Pro Tip: Building an Effective Routine

October 1, 2015

1. See It - The first step in an effective routine is to get behind the ball and visualize a positive outcome of the shot you are preparing to play. Fred Couples says, " I visualize the best shot I have played with the club I have chosen." Jack Nicklaus said he visualized himself sitting in a movie theatre "watching himself hit the proper shot."

2. Feel It - You may or may not choose to take a practice swing or smaller motion during your routine. Both are effective. Make a conscious effort to feel the motion regardless.

3. Physical Routine - Develop a consistent physical routine as you prepare to play the shot. This will include proper grip, stance and posture. Stance and posture includes assuring good alignment and proper ball position relative to the club and shot you are preparing to play. It's very important during this step of your pre-shot process to be as fluid and consistent as possible. If you focus on this properly, it will help your mind focus. You have already visualized a successful shot in Step 1, so "trust" that image.

4. Acceptance - Regardless of the result, accept the outcome and move on to next shot. This is very important. All great players do this very well! Developing and sticking to a pre- and post-shot routine, regardless of how you are playing, is important to becoming the best golfer you can be! Time and time again across the professional tours, the winners usually say in their victory interview " I did a good job of staying in my routine or process this week."